A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bergen vs. Pisa for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Bergen or Pisa?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Bergen or Pisa? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Pisa

Pisa is a classic, charming, and iconic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Bergen and Pisa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bergen or Pisa?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Pisa than Bergen. While Bergen is larger than Pisa, Pisa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pisa is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Bergen is known for its small town charm. Pisa is more touristy than Bergen and is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. It is also home to The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Bergen is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Bergen different from Pisa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pisa and Bergen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bergen or Pisa?

Pisa is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Pisa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

Is the Food Better in Bergen or Pisa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pisa is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Pisa is an experience not to be missed. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for Nightlife?

Pisa is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Pisa has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for Beaches?

Pisa is a popular place for the beach. However, Bergen is not a beach destination.

Pisa is a good option for a beach vacation. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Bergen is not a beach destination.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for its Old Town?

Pisa is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

Bergen is a good destination for visiting its old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Is the Shopping Better in Bergen or Pisa?

Both Bergen and Pisa are high quality shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Pisa. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for Families?

Bergen is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bergen is very family-friendly. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Pisa is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for Couples?

Bergen is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Bergen is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Pisa is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pisa is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pisa is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for Students?

Pisa is very popular for students. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Pisa. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

Plenty of students visit Bergen. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Is Bergen or Pisa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bergen is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Bergen can get you around easily. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

Pisa has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

Is Bergen or Pisa a more walkable city?

Bergen and Pisa both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

Pisa is very walkable. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bergen Worth Visiting? and Is Pisa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pisa or Bergen?

How long in Bergen or Pisa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bergen and Pisa. In our opinion, Pisa has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Pisa than Bergen. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pisa than Bergen if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pisa.

One day in Bergen or Pisa?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bergen. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pisa. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bergen or Pisa?

Bergen is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pisa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bergen or Pisa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Bergen. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pisa. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bergen or Pisa?

The laid back city of Bergen offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Pisa. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Norway, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bergen and Pisa, we can see that Pisa is more expensive. And not only is Bergen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bergen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bergen and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Pisa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pisa than you might in Bergen.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bergen Expensive? and Is Pisa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bergen or Pisa?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Pisa. When comparing the sizes of Bergen and Pisa, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Bergen or Pisa?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bergen or Pisa in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bergen as well as Pisa. The summer months attract visitors to Bergen because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pisa this time of year.

In July, Bergen is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 15°C (58°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Bergen usually gets more rain in July than Pisa. Bergen gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bergen or Pisa in the Autumn?

Both Pisa and Bergen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Bergen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pisa for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Bergen is much colder than Pisa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bergen averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Pisa fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pisa. It's quite rainy in Bergen. In October, Bergen usually receives more rain than Pisa. Bergen gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bergen or Pisa in the Winter?

Both Pisa and Bergen during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bergen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pisa in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bergen. In the winter, Bergen is much colder than Pisa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bergen in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Pisa averages at about 7°C (45°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. Bergen usually gets more rain in January than Pisa. Bergen gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bergen or Pisa in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bergen and Pisa. Many visitors come to Bergen in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pisa for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Bergen is generally much colder than Pisa. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 6°C (43°F), and Pisa fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Pisa receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Bergen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pisa. Bergen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Pisa receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pisa and Bergen